The provincial government has introduced legislation that would establish safeguards for Medical Assistance in Dying, also known as MAID.

The legislation would prevent any anyone under the age of 18 applying for MAID. Anyone whose sole underlying medical condition is a mental illness or lack the capacity to make their own health care decisions would also not qualify.

While MAID is governed by the federal Criminal Code, provinces are responsible for the delivery of health care and may establish additional safeguards within their health care systems.

(Photo: courtesy of Dying with Dignity)